One of the most visible improved impact players for Columbia this season is defender Lexi Mazur. The sophomore has made a tremendous jump from here first season by becoming one of the team leaders in ground balls (16) and caused turnovers (11) in only six games. In 2013, she posted 23 ground balls and 13 caused turnovers through 15 games and is on pace to more than double her output this season.

One of the new things mentioned about Columbia lacrosse this season has been the “high-powered” defense. So far, you have emerged as one of the leading defenders for Columbia. What is your take on the play of the defense this year?

We have a really great group of girls and a lot of young players so there has been an effort to make fundamentals the focus of our play this year. By doing the small things right, it helps the bigger picture come together and the chemistry our unit has, both on and off the field, has definitely played a significant role in developing that culture.

You are one of the leaders in the Ivy League in causing turnovers with 11. What has been the key to your play so far?

My teammates have been incredible and they certainly have pushed me to improve my defensive game this year. As a group we have grown tremendously, which has helped us to put more pressure on our opponents and generate a more powerful presence in the back half of the field.

Despite a 2-4 record, Columbia has held most of their opponents to significantly below their scoring average in each game. What has been the best part of this defense?

The consistent, continuous improvement and energy make it really fun to play together in practice and games. We have a lot of personality going on and each one of us motivates the other to work harder and bring more to each play, whether it is vocal or physical intensity.

You have significantly increased your numbers from last year already this season. What are some of your goals for this year?

I would love to see our team dominate the 50/50 stats and to continue to show more energy and presence on the field.

FUN FACTS

Favorite Color: Turquoise!

Favorite Movie: Fight Club or The Transporter or The Shawshank Redemption